Eastern Explorer Mini Tour: Toronto Departure

Departing early, we enjoy a pleasant drive east (passengers are required to check in with the Tour Director at the Chelsea Hotel by 7:00 a.m.. The coach will depart from the hotel for Montreal at 8:00 a.m.). Following the north shore of Lake Ontario, pass endless miles of rolling farmland. Your first destination is the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region, where you'll embark upon a relaxing cruise. After taking in the sights and sounds of this river playground, re-board the tour coach for the drive to Montreal. Overnight in Montreal.

This morning, we will tour the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. The dynamic city of Montreal encapsulates the two founding cultures of Canada and boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. Touring the downtown area we view the Olympic Complex, charming Old Montreal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal, and the bustling shopping streets. The afternoon is for leisure. Overnight in Montreal.

This morning, we prepare to depart from Montreal’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and partially follow the route of Canada’s first carriageway, the Chemin du Roy deep into French Canada. Winding our way through typical French-Canadian villages and towns, we experience true immersion in French culture. Upon arrival in Quebec City, we tour within the walls of the old city and view Lower Town, the Citadel, Battlefields Park, and the ornate city gates. Overnight in Quebec City.

The day is at your leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. You can enjoy an optional full-day excursion to Tadoussac including a 3-hour whale-watching tour on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Step aboard a regular boat and go in search of the world’s largest mammals. You will also visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls which are 30 meters higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls. Overnight in Quebec City.

Following the shore of St. Lawrence, this morning we travel west past Montreal, across the Ontario border, and on to Ottawa — the nation’s capital. We stop for lunch along the way at the Sucrerie de la Montagne — an authentic sugar shack and pioneer-style restaurant. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we take a quick tour of Ottawa. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Ottawa.

In the morning we explore Ottawa on a city tour. We view the Parliament Buildings, residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor General, the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site), and much more. The afternoon is free for independent exploration of Ottawa’s many museums and fine galleries, shopping at the Sparks Street Mall, or perhaps a boat cruise on one of the city’s many waterways. Overnight in Ottawa.

Our journey west from Ottawa features sparkling lakes, rushing streams, deep forests, and characteristic northern towns. The trip will be highlighted by a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park where we will take a walk along the scenic trails. This immense wildlife and forest preserve is a favorite destination for camping expeditions during the summer months, and your walk will give you the opportunity to experience a little of it for yourself. Soon, we enter the Muskoka resort region, our destination for the night. Overnight in Midland.

This morning, upon arrival at Sainte-Marie among The Hurons, we have breakfast. This fascinating three-acre historic site is a detailed reconstruction of the first inland European community in Canada. Next, we are driving south past Toronto and then through the orchards and vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula with a final destination of Niagara Falls.

A thrilling boat ride on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises - Voyage to the Falls brings us to the foot of the thundering waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. We will take a ride to the top of the Skylon Tower which provides a spectacular view of the falls and the surrounding district of Niagara. Afterward, you can enjoy an optional Niagara Helicopter Tour or Niagara Skywheel that gives you a breathtaking view of the Niagara Falls region. The evening is free for exploring North America’s “honeymoon capital”. Overnight in Niagara Falls.

We leave Niagara Falls this morning. Our drive follows the scenic Niagara Parkway through the historic village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the Shaw Festival. Here we see a small but thriving community, proud to display a carefully preserved nineteenth-century atmosphere. This afternoon completes the tour with a short drive back to Toronto. The tour ends at approximately 5:30 p.m. upon arrival at Toronto.